A Brief History of the Nanyang Tong San Association

Dongshan, formerly known as Ang Soa, is the second largest island in Fujian Province, China, and the southernmost island of Fujian. The island spans approximately 200 square kilometres and has a population of around 200,000. Originally part of the Fifth District of Zhao'an, Fujian Province, it was separated from Zhao'an and constituted as an independent county in 1915.

During the 1920s and 1930s, China was beset by frequent warfare, political turmoil, and incessant natural disasters, leaving the people with no means of livelihood. The people of Dongshan, long accustomed to the ways of fishing and seafaring, left their homes and crossed the seas in ever-increasing numbers to seek their fortunes in Singapore.

The history of Dongshan people settling in Singapore is a long one. In the early days, most resided in the areas of Malabar Street, Arab Street, Jalan Besar South, and Kambing (Little India). To the south, settlements were found on Pulau Brani (now known as Sentosa Island) and along Silat Road near Kampong Baru (popularly known as Ku Ah Suah and Si Kha Teng). Many Dongshan people also made their homes in Tai Seng Village at Paya Lebar (popularly known as Chong Mow Hng).

The Nanyang Tong San Association is one of Singapore's longest-established clan associations. It was founded on the initiative of five respected community leaders: Lim Tua Siong, Chu Lok Ki, Tng Jin Cheng, Lim Hian Tin, and Lim Chye Kim. Through their tireless efforts and the enthusiastic support of fellow townspeople, the Association was formally inaugurated on 24 April 1938, with its inaugural premises at 7 Kandahar Street, Rochor. Like the early Chinese clan associations of its era, the Tong San Association served as a vital institution helping newly arrived immigrants navigate matters of citizenship, education, and the resolution of disputes.

As membership and activities grew, the rented premises at Kandahar Street proved inadequate, and in May 1948 the Association acquired the full three-storey building at 16 Madras Street as its new home. This was followed in 1953 by the purchase of a two-storey premises at 148 Race Course Road as its permanent home. In the years that followed, the Association established a Mutual Aid Division in 1962 to advance the welfare of fellow townspeople; in 1970, an Education Fund Management Committee was set up to provide scholarships for the children of members; and in 1976, a Charitable Fund Committee was formed to render assistance to the elderly poor and persons with disabilities.

Through successive eras (colonial rule, the Japanese Occupation, and Singapore's independence and nation-building) the Association has stood steadfast at its home, progressing through the phases of its Founding, Revival, Development, Growth, and Consolidation, and preserving the bonds of fellowship among townspeople at home and abroad.

Over 85 years, Singaporeans of Dongshan heritage have striven with determination, never forgetting the founding vision of their predecessors. They have remained committed to serving the community and giving back to society through the Association's influence. Under the leadership of successive presidents and executive councils over the decades, the Association's affairs have flourished, with the encouraging participation of younger generations of professionals of Tong San heritage, ensuring that the torch is passed on in the finest tradition.